A sterile, single-strand (monofilament), synthetic, bioabsorbable thread made from a polymerization of polyglycolic acid (PGA) that is intended to join (approximate) the edges of a soft-tissue wound or incision by stitching or to ligate soft tissues. It may include an attached needle intended to be disposed of after single use; it may be coated with a material such as polycaprolactone or uncoated. The thread provides temporary wound support, until the wound sufficiently heals to withstand normal stress, and is subsequently absorbed by hydrolysis. This is a single-use device.